Bandits Attack Funeral Convoy of FRSC Officer, Abduct Nine Mourners, Demand ₦50 Million Ransom

Armed bandits have reportedly attacked a funeral convoy conveying the remains of a late Deputy Corps Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Augustine Ikwue, abducting nine mourners, including two FRSC personnel, along the Ochadamu–Ejule Road in Kogi State.

The attack, which occurred as the convoy was travelling to Benue State for the burial of the late officer, disrupted the funeral ceremony and forced mourners to flee for safety.

According to security intelligence reports, the kidnappers are demanding a ₦50 million ransom for the release of the victims.

The late FRSC officer, who reportedly died after a brief illness in Osogbo, Osun State, was being transported to his hometown in Ai-Ode, Upu community, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, where he was scheduled for burial on Friday.

During the attack, the assailants abandoned the deceased’s body in Ejule community before whisking away the mourners.

The corpse was later recovered by local residents and security operatives and released to the family, enabling the burial to proceed.

The identities of the abducted mourners have yet to be officially released, while there has been no confirmation from the Nigeria Police or other security agencies on the incident as of the time of filing this report.

The latest attack underscores the persistent security challenges along parts of the Kogi-Benue corridor, where kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common despite ongoing security operations in the region.

Authorities are yet to provide details on efforts to rescue the abducted victims or apprehend those responsible for the attack.